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It’s very important for every first-time visitor to Seoul to know where to stay and which hotel that best suits his or her budget and preference. Making the wrong choice could lead to unnecessary hassles and travel expenses.

The capital of South Korea consists of uniquely-named districts that are all connected via an extensive network of public transportation, each offering tourists unique experiences such as historical landmarks, natural scenery, expansive shopping malls, various dining possibilities, and nightlife districts. Drawing millions of visitors each year, Seoul is teeming with stylish accommodation options that range from centrally-located luxury hotels for the affluent to traditional guesthouses and quaint inns in quiet neighbourhoods for those who wish to experience Seoul’s traditional culture.

Finding the right accommodation can be an understandably daunting task, so we’ve compiled a rundown as well as the pros and cons of Seoul’s most popular districts to help you make the right decision for a truly enjoyable holiday.

Myeongdong: How to decide...

Myeongdong is Seoul's largest shopping mecca, housing department stores, shopping malls, street stalls, retail outlets, as well as numerous eateries that stay open past midnight. Aside from being incredibly convenient to get around Seoul via Myeongdong Subway Station, it also offers numerous sightseeing opportunities such as the iconic N Seoul Tower, Bukchon Hanok Village, and Myeongdong Nanta Theatre. Due to its popularity amongst tourists, hotels in Myeongdong cater to many budget levels, preferences, and style.

Who is it For:

- People looking for a lively nightlife scene
- People who want to be near landmarks and attractions
- People who want to be in the centre of the action
- People who like a wide range of restaurants
- Shopping enthusiasts

What's Good:

- Iconic landmarks such as N Seoul Tower, Myeongdong Market, and Bukchon Hanok Village
- A good mix of luxury, mid-range, and budget hotels
- Restaurants and cafes cater to different prices
- Easy to get around thanks to subways and buses

What's Not So Good:

- Subways and traffic can get very busy during peak hours
- Nightlife is limited to Myeongdong Night Market and all-night eateries

Dongdaemun: How to decide...

Similar to Myeongdong, Dongdaemun comprises mainly street markets, shopping centres, speciality shops, and manufacturing outlets that covers the entire area around Dongdaemun Gate. It is also a lively nightlife spot where visitors can enjoy various festivities, music performances, and fashion shows. Food-wise, the Mukja Golmok food alley is a popular area for shoppers to enjoy various Korean street foods and snacks while Jongmyo Royal Shrine is one of the few attractions in Dongdaemun.

Who is it For:

- Budget-conscious travellers
- Shopping enthusiasts

What's Good:

- A good mix of mid-range and budget hotels
- Plenty of wholesale shopping outlets
- Easy to get around thanks to subways and buses

Gangnam and Apgujeong: How to decide...

Gangnam and Apgujeong are well-regarded as Seoul’s trendiest districts, housing upscale shopping malls and street markets, as well as numerous dance clubs and bars that stay open until the wee hours of morning. Popular attractions found here include Lotte World Theme Park, COEX Mall, and Apgujeong's Rodeo Street, where Korean celebs have been spotted shopping for luxury goods and apparel. This shopping district is also filled with unique cafes as well as Korean, Thai and Japanese restaurants.

Who is it For:

- Wealthy travellers
- People who love to shop for branded goods
- People looking for vibrant
- Travellers who like a diverse range of dining options

What's Good:

- Stylish nightclubs that stay open as late as 07:00
- Plenty of luxury and international brands
- Good range of restaurants and cafes

Insadong: How to decide...

A great place to stay for travellers looking to experience Seoul’s traditional culture, Insadong district is filled with wooden tea houses, museums, handicraft shops, pottery and porcelain shops, boutique galleries, and street vendors in traditional apparel selling local delicacies. Accommodation options in Insadong consist of mid-range hotels and traditional guesthouses. On Sundays, the streets of Insadong become alive with street performances, art exhibitions, and cultural festivals.

Who is it For:

- Moderately wealthy travellers
- People looking to immerse themselves in the local culture
- People who love shopping

Hongdae : How to decide...

Hongdae is a neighbourhood in Seoul that’s popular for its youthful ambience, underground cultures, and indie music scene. Due to its close proximity to Hongik University, visitors can find an abundance of street art, urban art galleries, theatres, quaint cafes, and vibrant nightclubs. Hongdae also hosts a weekend market where local artists display and sell their handmade crafts and accessories.

Itaewon: How to decide...

Set in the centre of Seoul, Itaewon serves mainly as the home for the majority of expats in South Korea. As a result, this district is known as a melting pot of cultures and religions from all over the world, boasting restaurants, shopping and nightlife that are equally diverse and cater to travellers from all over the world. Itaewon is also a great place to purchase antiques as there are more than 100 vintage stores along a single street.

Who is it For:

- Travellers who want to enjoy a cosmopolitan atmosphere
- People who want to be in the centre of everything

What's Good:

- A good mix of luxury, mid-range and budget hotels
- Numerous restaurants that cater to international tastes
- Friendly residents that are of diverse nationalities

We try to provide free information that is as up-to-date and accurate as possible. However, if you are planning to travel it's a good idea to double check specific dates and information to avoid surprises.